The Elemental Educator Podcast

Applied Leadership 2: Why Small Moments Matter More Than Charisma in Leadership

The most effective leader isn't always the loudest, but the one who embraces authentic leadership. Apply the lessons you learn to refine your leadership skills and understand that small actions matter. Discover the power of influence others and how it shapes visionary leadership.
 
Brown, M. E., & Treviño, L. K. (2006). Ethical leadership: A review and future directions. The Leadership Quarterly, 17(6), 595–616. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.leaqua.2006.10.004
Denning, S. (2006). Effective storytelling: Strategic business narrative techniques. Strategy & Leadership, 34(1), 42–48. https://doi.org/10.1108/10878570610637885
Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M. D., & Kelly, D. R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92(6), 1087–1101. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.92.6.1087
Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist, 56(3), 218–226. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.56.3.218
Kiel, F. (2015). Return on Character: The real reason leaders and their companies win. Harvard Business Review Press.

Applied Leadership 1: The Leadership Mistake You're Not Seeing

Leadership isn't just about strategy—it’s about energy. In this solo episode, Tyler shares 3 high-impact shifts every leader needs after hearing Phil’s story. In this Applied Leadership episode, Tyler Comeau breaks down 3 transformational takeaways from his interview with Phil Januszewski—and what to do with them: 🧠 Takeaway 1: Energy is Contagious (and Strategic) Backed by research from Armston and Daniel Goleman, energy sets the emotional baseline for teams. Leaders must protect it. 🔁 Action Step: Audit your leadership calendar. Add 15 daily minutes for joy. 💥 Takeaway 2: Stop Leading from Empty Gallup and Maslach's work on burnout shows that when leaders deplete, teams crumble. 🔁 Action Step: Block 1 hour this week—no meetings, no output. Just input. 🌱 Takeaway 3: Positivity Isn't Soft—It's Strategic Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory and Google’s Project Aristotle both agree: high-functioning teams thrive on positivity and psychological safety. 🔁 Action Step: Start your next meeting by asking, “What’s one small win we can celebrate this week?” Then pause. Hold space. This episode isn’t just reflection—it’s activation. Because if your story doesn’t shape your leadership… what’s the point? 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: When was the last time you protected your energy on purpose? Drop your answer below 👇 Affiliate Links Riverside – https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal – https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron – https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl – https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean Unlimited Hosting – https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Podbean Business Plan – https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
 
References
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Ashkanasy, N. M., & Dorris, A. D. (2017). Emotions in the workplace. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, 4, 67–90. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-orgpsych-032516-113231
Edmondson, A. C. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. https://doi.org/10.2307/2666999
Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist, 56(3), 218–226. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.56.3.218
Gallup. (2020). Employee burnout: Causes and cures. Gallup. https://www.gallup.com/workplace/288539/employee-burnout-part-main-causes.aspx
Goleman, D. (2000). Leadership that gets results. Harvard Business Review, 78(2), 78–90. https://hbr.org/2000/03/leadership-that-gets-results
Krekel, C., Ward, G., & De Neve, J.-E. (2019). Employee wellbeing, productivity, and firm performance. Centre for Economic Performance, London School of Economics and Political Science. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3356581
Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). Understanding the burnout experience: Recent research and its implications for psychiatry. World Psychiatry, 15(2), 103–111. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20311
Project Aristotle. (2015). Guide: Understand team effectiveness. Google Re:Work. https://rework.withgoogle.com/print/guides/5721312655835136/

Episode 67: Why Every School Leader Needs This Mindset (With William Parker)

What does it really mean when someone says, “What you do matters”? William D. Parker shares the truth behind legacy, leadership, and the moments that shape school culture forever. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Connect with William D. Parker: Website – https://www.williamdparker.com Books – https://www.williamdparker.com/books Podcast (Principal Matters) – https://www.williamdparker.com/podcast 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership is about influence, not control. 📩 Send this to an aspiring leader who needs a reminder: what they do truly matters. In this masterclass-style conversation, Elemental Educator host Tyler Comeau interviews William D. Parker, founder of Principal Matters, author of four leadership books, and host of the Principal Matters Podcast (400+ episodes!). Together, they explore: 🔥 The deeper meaning behind “What You Do Matters” 🌍 Why shared culture beats personal credit 🎯 How to lead with love, faith, and practical values 🧠 What it takes to switch your focus during adversity ⚡ From principal to full-time consultant—what it took to make the leap 💡 Summer-themed leadership games + coaching moments Whether you're new to leadership or a seasoned admin, this episode offers soul-deep reminders and strategy-packed takeaways for leading with courage and connection. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What’s one leadership value you want to model this year? Drop it below 👇 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Education Leadership 01:29 Journey to Education and Leadership 05:10 Grounded Moments: Core Values in Education 17:31 The Importance of Influence 18:57 Adversity in Leadership 23:59 Navigating School Dynamics and Fairness 25:14 Investigating Accountability and Restoration 27:35 Navigating Adversity with Patience 28:37 The Power of Focus in Leadership 35:16 Embracing Change in Leadership 41:30 Building a Shared Culture in Organizations 47:13 Making Bold Leadership Decisions 53:48 Advice for New Leaders Affiliate Links Riverside – https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal – https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron – https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl – https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean Unlimited Hosting – https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Podbean Business Plan – https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator

Episode 66: Is Education Ready for Bold, Authentic Change? (with Brandon Jenkins)

What happens when a teacher refuses to stay silent and starts creating change—online and in real life? Brandon Jenkins shares how humor, authenticity, and servant leadership transform classrooms and communities. In this episode of The Elemental Educator, host Tyler Comeau talks with Brandon Jenkins—educator, content creator, and host of Teaching in Color. They explore: Servant leadership vs. transactional leadership Why representation changes the trajectory of every classroom Overcoming resistance as a new teacher with bold ideas Using social media skits to build community and fight burnout Four elemental mini-games: Principle or Preference, Make It Worse, Here’s the Trick, and Final Answer Whether you’re a new teacher, a school leader, or just passionate about authentic change, Brandon’s story will spark ideas—and maybe challenge the way you see education. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Connect with Brandon Jenkins TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@allaboutbrandon Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/allaboutbrandon 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership starts with authenticity. 📩 Send this to a teacher or content creator who leads with humor and heart. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What’s one leadership moment that made you laugh and grow? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links Riverside – https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal – https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron – https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl – https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean Unlimited Hosting – https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Podbean Business Plan – https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator

Episode 65: Why Teaching Needs to Be Unapologetically Honest (With Steven Saad)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Steven Saad—host of The Mr. Saad Show—shares his journey from classroom chaos to content creation with purpose. Steven dives into how he connects with students, why education must evolve, and how humor, storytelling, and unapologetic truth-telling are reshaping how we lead and teach. If you’re a leader who values connection over perfection—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Connect with Steven Saad: YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeWyf8KIewfELO03GmyiQlw TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@themrsaadshow?lang=en Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/themrsaadshow/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership starts with authenticity. 📩 Send this to a teacher or content creator who leads with humor and heart. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What’s one leadership moment that made you laugh and grow? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator #leadwithhumor #teacherleaders #boldeducators #educationleadership #elementaleducator
 
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Elemental Educator Podcast 02:11 Steven Saad's Circuitous Journey to Education 05:23 Grounded Moments: Principles vs. Preferences 06:44 The Best is Yet to Come: Embracing Optimism 11:23 Elevator Pitch: Selling the Optimistic Perspective 13:11 Facing Adversity: Lessons from Headwinds and Tailwinds 21:36 Finding Strength in Adversity 25:55 Embracing Change and Growth 27:24 Building Trust and Engagement 31:33 The Challenge of Starting 35:36 Navigating Feedback and Resilience 38:13 The Importance of Emotional Awareness 44:21 Building a Culture of Change 47:46 The Importance of Character Education 51:18 Bold Decisions and Personal Growth 55:44 Betting on Yourself 01:00:36 Navigating Negativity and Finding Happiness 01:05:38 Creative Outlets and Personal Joy

Episode 64: The Pressure to Perform — And Why You Don’t Have To (With William Fox)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Will opens up about leading while still learning. From navigating uncertainty to balancing pressure and purpose, this conversation is packed with insights for any leader trying to stay grounded during growth. Whether you're building something new, leading for the first time, or figuring it out as you go—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Resources & Links Mentioned: https://anchoredmentalhealth.ca/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe if you’ve ever felt like you’re figuring it out mid-flight. 📩 Share this with a leader in transition. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What’s one leadership lesson you had to learn the hard way? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator About the Channel Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action. Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links may be affiliate links.

Episode 63: When Leadership Breaks You: A Powerful Story of Burnout and Healing (With Rick Robinson)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, educational leader Rick shares raw, reflective insight on burnout, leadership culture, and the lessons learned from nearly leaving education altogether. From rediscovering joy to prioritizing what really matters, this episode is a bold and healing conversation for leaders and teachers alike. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Resources & Links Mentioned: www.linkedin.com/in/hatrick403 https://www.facebook.com/hatrick403/ https://www.instagram.com/hatrick403/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with real, grounded conversations on leadership. 📩 Share with a colleague who needs to feel seen and supported. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What’s one personal boundary you’ve started to honor this year? Tell us in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator #educationleadership #burnoutrecovery #principalwellness #eduleadership #elementaleducator

Episode 62: Quit Your Job to Create: Taking Big Risks, and Making It Work (With Tom Buck)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, full-time creator Tom Buck shares his incredible journey from high school teacher to YouTube success. From camera gear to creative burnout, and bold life pivots to hilarious teaching moments—this one is packed with real talk and practical insight. If you're a leader, educator, or creator, this is a masterclass in chasing joy, taking risks, and finding your purpose. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Resources & Links Mentioned: Tom’s YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@TomBuck The Enthusiasm Project – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-enthusiasm-project/id1450289127 Website – https://www.himynameistom.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sodarntom Twitter/X – https://x.com/sodarntom 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with bold creators and inspiring leaders! 📩 Share this with someone ready to make a big leap in life or career. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What's one big risk you’ve been considering but haven’t taken yet? Tell us in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator ⏰ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 5:35 Grounded Moments 16:30 Headwinds and Tailwinds 35:02 Ripples of Change 47:20 Spark or Burn 58:38 Listener Questions #YouTubeForEducators #ContentCreation #LeadershipPodcast #TeacherToCreator #TomBuck